Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I adopted Hank, a GSD other mix, about 4 weeks ago. Things are going great. We started classes last weekend and he'll do commands such as sit and shake on his walk now without food incentives. We' haven't gotten to controlled walking (next week's class), but I'm really looking forward to that.

Anyway, two questions:
1. I want to let my GSD run free in the park or play fetch in the park. However, the one time he did get free, he just proceeded to run all the way home (about a mile away from where we were) without me. Is there a way to tell if he's ready to be let free of the leash? Everything I read says they should have leash-free time and my 20X15 yard, probably doesn't cut it. We run about 2 miles a day and walk another 2, but after seeing him run free, I know he's not getting a full workout. Any ideas would be great

2. Related question: are GSD's good dog park dogs, in general? So far he's done well around other dogs. Unfortunately, every dog he's met (except one)has started barking at him which he wasn't a fan of so he barked back. For the same reason I want to let him fetch, free of a leash, in a park, I'd like to take him to a dog park. I'm not sure how Sheps are accepted into that scene, though.

Thank you immensely for any thoughts or advice.

Hi! Congrats on your new GSD! If you are attending classes that would be a great time to ask your trainer how to go about teaching your boy to fetch or recall. I think your yard would be big enough to start the training and then move on to a bigger arena such as the park. Leash training would probably still be the preferred method but it is certainly something to work on while attending your classes. As for the socialization in parks, control at this point would be key. It may be best at first to keep him close to you. Most dogs don't like their space invaded but in time with proper socializing it can be accomplished. Good Luck and keep us updated on your progress.
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